Product and Data Lead

United by a sense of purpose towards our customers – to be a trusted partner for the long-term – and our universal banking platform in EMEA, SMBC Group has an international growth agenda and award-winning products, meaning we provide exciting opportunities to work on a diverse range of projects and initiatives. We deliver a full suite of corporate finance products and solutions to our customers as well as investment banking and advisory services, and a range of innovative solutions in global capital markets.

The Product Data Lead is a critical role in the capturing and building of a single Product Taxonomy across SMBC within EMEA. This role will help SMBC to develop a deeper understanding of its product landscape and identify those systems where Products are managed and maintained. The ideal candidate must have a strong knowledge of the many facets of Banking Products.

The role will require working with stakeholders across all functions to dive into the Product lists held locally and ensure fit-for-purpose data, as we look to leverage best practice across the industry. The role also requires an ability to educate and convince stakeholders at all levels on the essential nature of this role and the long-term benefits of the work being undertaken.

The EMEA Data Office sits within the Operations, Planning and Data Department, covering all EMEA entities (including Securities and Banking subsidiaries) and all datasets. This team is responsible for defining and implementing the EMEA Data Strategy and building out its data management capabilities.

As part of this work, the EMEA Data Office has established a framework which encompasses cultural, behavioural, procedural, and system transformation to deliver the new strategy. This initially focuses on good governance by improved Data Architecture, Data Management and Data Quality, but as we evolve, will focus more on how we can use Data to drive new ways of working and improved business outcomes.

We have been formed to really drive data-led transformation through the bank, and it is a great opportunity to join us at the very start of this exciting journey. The EMEA Data Office has grown quickly to have over fifty members (permanent employees, contractors, and consultants) in less than 3 years, and is expected to grow further over the next 2-3 years.

• Drive the aggregation of all product data through agreed and defined terms to link common data points across multiple systems.
• Define all SMBC Bank product features, pricing, terms, and conditions, ensuring and supporting the business to become compliant with risk and regulatory standards, as well as industry best practices.
• Contribute to building a strong product culture by establishing forums where appropriate and providing product leadership within the EMEA Data Office.
• Establish consistent contact with all teams to provide updates, stay on track and report risks and issues timely with proven ability to quickly earn the trust of sponsors and key stakeholders.

Solid knowledge and expertise in Banking Products. Previous experience of setting up and managing a successful Product Taxonomy, including both project and support aspects. Ability to think in an enterprise-wide manner, rather than a siloed or business unit focused fashion. Confident stakeholder engagement skills to communicate and achieve buy-in from stakeholders across EMEA. An understanding of Physical, Logical, and Business data Models. Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Visio, PowerPoint and MS Project. Proven ability to be a team player, while retaining the ability to work independently with little supervision. Knowledge of data related regulatory requirements. Knowledge of emerging trends and issues within the Data Management landscape. Experience working in regulated frameworks, ideally financial services. Experience with SharePoint.

Centralised Product Management / Governance is a new concept within the organisation - therefore good project and communication skills are required. The candidate must be willing to challenge the status quo in an empathic manner, while helping the wider team to have an ethos of openness and transparency that will help us nurture real business innovation. Embraces Diversity. Risk Management.

For all the expertise and experience you bring to help us make a difference, it’s only sustainable if we support you to build your career and be your best self so we offer competitive company benefits, centred around promoting positive well-being and work-life balance. Initiatives in place which promote a diverse and inclusive culture and healthy work life balance include hybrid working, Sport & Social Clubs and Diversity and Inclusion networks.

• Hybrid and flexible working.
• Competitive paid leave days.
• Benefits to support your physical wellbeing, including private medical insurance and life and invalidity insurance.
• Various policies to support your mental wellbeing, including a robust behavioural health network with counselling and coaching services.
• Access a wide range of learning and development opportunities and career progression opportunities.